What it is
Evidence that tells you why, not just what.
Understanding whether a program is working, and why, requires more than quantitative data. Macaulay Consulting contributes to evaluations that assess appropriateness, effectiveness and impact, with a particular focus on qualitative research and bringing lived experience into evidence that informs decision-making.
The work pairs methodological rigour with the kind of human listening that produces real insight. Numbers tell you what is happening. Good qualitative work tells you why, in what context and what to do next.
Who it's for
Organisations responsible for programs who need to understand impact, refine approach or report to funders and boards.
- Health, education and human services
- Government departments and agencies evaluating policy or programs
- Community sector organisations measuring effectiveness and impact
What's included
Evaluation and research engagements typically combine:
- Program evaluation (qualitative component, or full qualitative evaluation)
- Evaluation framework design
- Stakeholder and community consultation
- Focus groups and in-depth interviews
- Lived experience research
- Thematic analysis and synthesis
- Synthesis reporting for decision-makers, boards or funders
- Co-presented findings to leadership and stakeholders
Typical engagements
What this looks like in practice:
- The qualitative component of a mixed-methods program evaluation
- A standalone qualitative evaluation of a new service
- Lived experience research to inform service design
- Community consultation as part of a strategy or planning process
Outcomes
Evidence decision-makers can act on.
Evidence that informs decisions, not just evidence that meets reporting obligations. The work produces findings decision-makers can actually act on, grounded in the perspectives of the people the program exists to serve.
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